Rice dumplings, or zongzi, are traditionally enjoyed during the Dragon Boat Festival, but their delicious flavours and satisfying texture make them perfect for so much more. At Pam Pam, we believe these iconic bundles of sticky rice goodness deserve a place on your table year-round.
If you’ve fallen in love with our Sticky Rice Dumpling - Zongzi or are curious to try them for the first time, here’s how to savour them beyond the festival season.
Why Rice Dumplings Are a Year-Round Delight
Rice dumplings aren't just a once-a-year treat. Thanks to their versatile fillings, plant-based innovations, and satisfying texture, they can easily be enjoyed for breakfast, a snack, or even a special part of a celebratory meal.
If you want to explore more about the history and symbolism of zongzi, check out Sticky Rice Dumplings (Zongzi): Unwrapping the Traditional Delights of the Dragon Boat Festival.
5 Creative Ways to Enjoy Rice Dumplings Beyond the Festival
1. Make Them a Weekend Brunch Highlight
Move over avocado toast — a warm sticky rice dumpling paired with a fragrant cup of jasmine tea makes a deeply satisfying brunch option.
You can even create a platter with dumplings, fresh fruit, and dipping sauces for a vibrant, Asian-inspired brunch spread.
2. Pack Them for a Nourishing Lunchbox
Rice dumplings are perfectly portable.
Simply reheat one and pop it into your work or study lunchbox for a wholesome, plant-based alternative to sandwiches or salads.
Their hearty ingredients — sticky rice, mung beans, and savoury fillings — offer a slow-release energy source to power you through the afternoon.
3. Serve Them as a Plant-Based Entrée
Hosting a dinner party? Rice dumplings make a brilliant starter.
Slice them into thick rounds after steaming and serve them with a side of Signature Dumpling Soy Sauce for dipping.
It's an elegant, unexpected entrée that will impress your guests.
4. Include Them in a DIY Dumpling Feast
Why stick to only one type of dumpling?
Create a dumpling feast with a variety of options like our Vegetable Dumplings, Vegetable Spring Rolls, and sticky rice dumplings.
Add dipping sauces, stir-fried greens, and a pot of tea for the ultimate dumpling celebration at home.
Want more ideas for a plant-based Asian feast? Browse our Asian-Inspired Meals collection for inspiration.
5. Pair Them with a Sweet Dessert Dumpling
Did you know we also offer a Black Sticky Rice Pudding with Taro and Coconut?
Create a "sticky rice duo" by enjoying a savoury rice dumpling first, followed by a sweet one for dessert.
It’s a comforting, balanced way to experience the full spectrum of traditional Asian flavours.
How to Prepare Pam Pam’s Rice Dumplings
At Pam Pam, we’ve taken the hard work out of traditional dumpling preparation.
Our Sticky Rice Dumpling - Zongzi is ready to heat and eat — no special equipment needed.
To reheat:
-
Steam: 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
-
Microwave: Wrap the dumpling in a damp paper towel and microwave for 2–3 minutes, depending on your microwave strength.
Both methods preserve the delicate texture and rich flavours that make rice dumplings so special.
Explore More Plant-Based Asian Classics
Love the idea of expanding your Asian plant-based menu?
Explore these blogs for more delicious inspiration:
-
Reinventing Tradition: The Story of Fried Rice and Our Plant-Based Twist
-
Exploring the Sweet Delights of Asian Desserts: A Vegan Journey
Rice dumplings are more than just a festive food — they’re a beautiful expression of heritage, connection, and plant-based creativity.
Whether you're enjoying them for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a celebration, Pam Pam’s plant-based sticky rice dumplings offer a delicious taste of tradition any time of the year.
Ready to bring these timeless flavours to your table?
Order yours here.
